The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has clarified that the government’s directive to suspend all post-retirement contract appointments for retired public service staff does not apply to personnel in the education sector.
Speaking at the inauguration of the University of Ghana (UG) Governing Council on April 25, Mr. Iddrisu addressed concern raised by academic workers following the announcement of the contract suspension policy.
He reassured them that the directive would not affect members of academia, emphasizing their importance as a “rare breed” in the country.
“About a month ago, the president issued post-contract renewals. My understanding was that there is some fear and panic on our university campuses. Let me assure you that it does not affect persons in academia, and you are entitled to that exemption”.
The Minister further proposed a future dialogue to review the retirement age for academic staff, suggesting that the current age of 60 could be reconsidered.
“We recognise that you are a rare breed in our country and we need to protect this rare species. And therefore, this post contract beyond 60 years, even though the constitutional provision does not affect members of academia in the country, maybe at the appropriate time, the country can have a conversation on this retirement age, whether we want to maintain it at 60 or adjust it”.
